**Concerning Developments in Georgia**
A group of Georgian leaders, including the country‘s fifth President Salome Zurabishvili, have appealed to European leaders ahead of a meeting tomorrow. They are urging Europe to pay close attention to the situation in Georgia.
The appeal was released by President Zurabishvili’s press service and was coordinated with opposition parties and civil society groups. It highlights three main reasons why Europe should take action: democracy, sovereignty, and strategy.
**Democracy at Risk**
The Georgian government is cracking down on democratic institutions and fundamental rights. Russia-backed authorities are using repressive measures to undermine the country’s European future. The appeal warns that if this continues, it will damage the credibility of European foreign policy.
**Sovereignty Under Threat**
Russia is trying to use a “hybrid war” approach to regain control over Georgia. This involves manipulating elections and installing a proxy government. If successful, it could spread beyond Europe’s borders.
**Strategy in Play**
The fate of Georgia is closely tied to that of Ukraine. The discussions about peace in Ukraine cannot ignore the situation in Georgia. The appeal warns that losing Georgia would give Russia dominance over the region.
**Call for Action**
Despite challenging priorities, the Georgian leaders are calling on European leaders to engage with their country’s crisis. After four months of protests, Georgia is in a deep economic and social crisis. The authorities are not engaging with the opposition, and the only peaceful way out is new elections.
The appeal urges Europe to support the most exposed segments of civil society, including conscience prisoners and regional media. It also calls for a “Voice of Europe” to promote freedom and European values.
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